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@runningservant

Houston, TX Raving since 2020 Boston Marathon finisher, 50 States hopeful/finisher, Marathon Maniacs, World Marathon Majors Six Star hopeful/finisher AARON'S AUDACIOUS GOALS Active 11 months, 2 weeks ago

About Me

  • Running club(s):

    RUNandSERVE them all.

  • Rave race:

    Running Servant

  • Race that's calling my name:

    Tokyo Marathons 2024

  • I run because:

    I feel the presence of God when I run

My Races

Organize, track & review your races and personal bests here.

50 States Map
image/svg+xml FL TX NM AZ AK CA NV UT CO OR WA ID HI OK MT WY ND SD NE KS MN IA MO AR LA MS AL GA SC IL WI MI IN OH TN KY NC WV VA PA NY ME VT NH RI CT NJ DE MD MA DC

Half Marathon

Marathon

Ultramarathon

(Marathon or Ultra) + Half

Marathon + Ultra

Other

Future Races

Personal Bests (6)

Race Distance Location Date Result
50K Tulsa, OK Jan 23, 2021 4:20:00
Marathon Gulf Shores, AL Jan 31, 2021 3:00:00
Half Marathon Akron, OH Sep 25, 2021 3:15:05
10 Miler Baltimore, MT Jun 5, 2021 2:15:35
Quarter Marathon Baton Rouge, LA Mar 6, 2021 1:40:39
7K Gulf Shores, AL Jan 30, 2021 57:32

Future Races (0)

Race Distance Location Date Paid

Past Races (78)

Race Distance Location Date Result My Raves My Performance
Marathon Ottawa, Canada May 28, 2023
50K Dallas, TX Dec 9, 2022
Marathon Arlington, VA Oct 30, 2022
Half Marathon Kailua-Kona, HI Jun 26, 2022
Marathon Coeur d'Alene, ID May 29, 2022
Marathon Hartford, CT May 20, 2022
Marathon Fargo, ND May 20, 2022
Marathon Westfield, MA May 19, 2022
Marathon Warwick, RI May 18, 2022
Marathon Nashua, NH May 17, 2022
Marathon Portland, ME May 16, 2022
Marathon Fairlee, VT May 15, 2022
Marathon Bellvue, CO May 1, 2022
Marathon Little Rock, AR Mar 6, 2022
10K Little Rock, AR Mar 5, 2022
Marathon Mesa, AZ Feb 12, 2022
Marathon New Orleans, LA Feb 6, 2022
10K New Orleans, LA Feb 5, 2022
5K Kapaa, HI Jan 20, 2022
Half Marathon Kapaa, HI Jan 20, 2022
Marathon Kapaa, HI Jan 20, 2022
10K Kapaa, HI Jan 20, 2022
Marathon Houston, TX Jan 16, 2022
5K Houston, TX Jan 15, 2022
Dopey Challenge (48.6 Miles) Lake Buena Vista, FL Jan 6, 2022
50K Dallas, TX Dec 12, 2021
10K Memphis, TN Dec 4, 2021
Marathon Memphis, TN Dec 4, 2021
Marathon Cocoa, FL Nov 28, 2021
Marathon Little Rock, AR Nov 21, 2021
10K Little Rock, AR Nov 20, 2021
Marathon Vienna, IL Nov 14, 2021
Marathon Staten Island, NY Nov 7, 2021
Half Marathon Las Cruces, NM Oct 30, 2021
10K Las Cruces, NM Oct 29, 2021
5K Las Cruces, NM Oct 28, 2021
Marathon Des Moines, IA Oct 17, 2021
Marathon Hopkinton, MA Oct 11, 2021
Marathon Baltimore, MD Oct 9, 2021
Marathon Crazy Horse, SD Oct 3, 2021
Half Marathon Akron, OH Sep 25, 2021 3:15:05
Marathon Bismarck, ND Sep 18, 2021
Marathon Waitsfield, VT Sep 12, 2021
Marathon Davis, WV Aug 28, 2021
Marathon Snoqualmie Pass, WA Aug 15, 2021
Marathon Holland, MI Aug 7, 2021
Marathon Allenstown, NH Jul 24, 2021 5:30:00
Marathon Cerritos, CA Jul 17, 2021
Marathon El Dorado, KS Jul 10, 2021
Half Marathon Frederick, MD Jul 10, 2021 3:34:00
Marathon Portland, OR Jul 4, 2021
Marathon Morgan, UT Jun 26, 2021
Marathon Two Harbors, MN Jun 19, 2021 7:02:00
Marathon Wilmington, DE Jun 12, 2021 7:00:00
Marathon South Williamson, KY Jun 12, 2021
10 Miler Havre, MT Jun 5, 2021 2:15:35
Marathon Havre, MT Jun 5, 2021 5:14:07
Marathon Coeur d\\\'Alene, ID May 30, 2021 5:51:00
Marathon Rochelle Park, NJ May 23, 2021 3:19:00
Marathon Cary, NC May 15, 2021
Marathon Washington, DC May 2, 2021
Marathon Medford, WI Apr 24, 2021
Marathon Roanoke, VA Apr 17, 2021
Marathon St Louis, MO Apr 11, 2021
Marathon Carmel, IN Apr 3, 2021
Marathon Hawley, PA Mar 28, 2021
Marathon Hardwick, NJ Mar 28, 2021
Marathon Hawley, PA Mar 27, 2021
Marathon Las Vegas, NV Mar 20, 2021
Marathon Savannah, GA Mar 13, 2021 5:15:00
Marathon Baton Rouge, LA Mar 7, 2021
Quarter Marathon Baton Rouge, LA Mar 6, 2021 1:40:39
Marathon Oak Island, NC Feb 13, 2021 3:15:00
Marathon Greenville, MS Feb 6, 2021 7:00:01
Marathon Gulf Shores, AL Jan 31, 2021 3:00:00
7K Gulf Shores, AL Jan 30, 2021 57:32
50K Tulsa, OK Jan 23, 2021 4:20:00
Marathon Hilton Head Island, SC Jan 16, 2021 7:20:12

My Raves

In the winter month of January on the 15th day in the 1971 year of our LORD, a birth of a runner took place. What was his name? You guessed … MORE

In the winter month of January on the 15th day in the 1971 year of our LORD, a birth of a runner took place. What was his name? You guessed correctly, Aaron Burros. I am the one birthed but wasn’t born to run and was far from being the Running Servant I am today.

As I prepared to run my 50th Birthday Year Celebration running quest, 50 marathons in 50 states in 50 days, I was excited to put on my schedule the Akron Marathon, even though I wasn’t sure if it would even take place due to the pandemic. But it did take place. It was a highlight of my year.

After settling in to the guest hotel, I walked around the downtown area reminiscing of how it looked when I was 9 years old walk to my Aunt and Uncle’s house while noticing mile markers and wondering how the course would end. There was a slope which elevated in the direction of the finish area. I thought to myself how fitting. This reminded me of how the month of September was ending — heading up to a milestone of my journey. It was surreal. I’m in my home city about to tow the line and run the course. But with every race there exist challenges before you get to enjoy that moment.

I took time to enjoy every moment. I intentionally walked the mile to the expo. I intentionally walked into the expo to pick up my packet. I continued to be intentional about every part of the process. Then it happened. My PTSD was triggered. I couldn’t believe this was happening, not now, not in front of all these people and not in the midst of my beloved birthplace. The eyes of the young volunteer told me everything I needed to know about how I had responded to him informing me that my 1/4 Zip wasn’t available. You might be laughing reading this, but it wasn’t a laughing matter. It’s my second biggest trigger of my PTSD.

In trying to maintain a sense of control, I asked to speak to the person over the expo. She quickly came over, I explained why I was very disappointed and how I was tired of races charging extra for bigger sizes; only for me to get to the races to be told they’d ran out of my my size. Again, the look on her face told me everything I needed to know about how quickly I was losing control.

The expo coordinator took ownership (many don’t) apologized and tried desperately to make it right. But there was nothing that could be done as they didn’t have my size in anything. I expressed to her how important it was to ensure that races maintain the integrity of merchandise where runners pay extra. She literally wrote it down and asked for my contact info. After wards we went separate ways.

I totally lost control of my emotions. I went and sat in the hallway weeping uncontrollably. Please don’t think this was all about a 1/4 Zip. The betrayal and pain runs very deep. As I wept the coordinator comes back. She gets my attention. She tells me that one of the volunteers has a husband, who is an ultra marathoner and who has a 1/4 Zip in my size, that is willing to give it to me and take the smaller size. Seriously, now I’m crying both uncontrolled and controlled tears, some of joy and some of pain. Ultra Marathoners are awesome selfless human beings; this is what I normal do and not something that is done for me, thank you,I express to them.

I often say that it isn’t about things going wrong, as they shall, but what you do when things go wrong that matters. These ladies provided to me the best experience that the towing and crossing of a start / finish line could ever provide.

The next day I was past excited to run even though I battled the depression from being triggered. I went from not running the race to a place of running and enjoying the sites and sunrise (on the bridge) to the people and police along the course. All because two ladies embodied what I would experience along the course inside the expo. Akron owes me nothing.

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Plane, no pilots or crew... Plane and pilots, no crew... Plane, pilots left, still no crew... Delayed 1 hour... Delayed 3 hours 15 minutes later... Delayed 8 hours immediately following... … MORE

Plane, no pilots or crew…
Plane and pilots, no crew…
Plane, pilots left, still no crew…
Delayed 1 hour…
Delayed 3 hours 15 minutes later…
Delayed 8 hours immediately following…
Lady: We can get you to Seattle but you have to add an additional stop (2 total). But then we’d have to figure out how to get you to Alaska from there.

Me: ma’am, I need a refund. I’m home here in Texas. Y’all not going to get me stuck in another city.

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This race is self explanatory. If you can't explain it yourself, you need to go run it. As many know, whatever your best time is in the full marathon, take … MORE

This race is self explanatory. If you can’t explain it yourself, you need to go run it. As many know, whatever your best time is in the full marathon, take 15 to 20 minutes off. But there’s a catch.

Will you be able to catch your breath? From the paxket pickup to picking up your jaw off the ground, the sites and scenery will take away your breath if the running of the course doesn’t first. Words cannot describe what you’ll experience. And if you and I were face to face, I could only give you a huge smile and shake my head.
Speaking of heads, hold on to yours. After you complete this marathon, that’s what you’ll need to do. Your PR will have you feeling like you ran a sub 2 marathon. If you don’t get the big head and float away, I don’t know what will make you feel like you’re ready to just explode.
Although I didn’t finish the full, I was able to get halfway through the course before pain from my wounds took me out. I’ve ran this course multiple times, and it never ceased to amaze me. Neither will you.

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This is the real deal. The Race is all that and a bag of sweet potatoe chips. First and foremost, the entire staff loves what they do and who they … MORE

This is the real deal. The Race is all that and a bag of sweet potatoe chips. First and foremost, the entire staff loves what they do and who they do it for. They celebrate each and everyone way before you begin and even after you end. Show up because they show out.
The beginning of the race has you running to the trail head. Consider this a warm up mile, because once you enter the trail head and embark upon the trails, you won’t want to leave. Loop after loop is lavishly laid out for you, supported for you, and naturally beautify to you. You’ll loose yourself.
After finishing this race, you’ll feel as though you got away with murder. Guilt may set in as you realize you recieved way more then you paid for. And even though I wasn’t able to finish due to my PTSD being triggered by a neighboring farmer shooting varmints in his field along the backside of the course, I so look forward to going out there again.

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After arriving into Denver Colorado from Houston Texas to connect to a United Airlines flight, which was the only airlines to fly into the airport in North Dakota unfortunately for … MORE

After arriving into Denver Colorado from Houston Texas to connect to a United Airlines flight, which was the only airlines to fly into the airport in North Dakota unfortunately for me, I had a brief hour or so to grab something to eat before the flight. However, the over priced nachos wouldn’t be my only disappointment.

Upon finishing something resembling heated chip and a melted mangle cheese like substance, I headed to the waiting area for my flight. Once there, the gate agent informed United passengers that the plane which was scheduled to be there was actually in Sioux Falls, and that we not only didn’t have a plane but also there was no crew or pilots. Why no one from United Airlines noticed this minor detail earlier during the day, he said that he had no idea.

Well, great thing I’m called according to God’s purposes and love the LORD, because this was used to work on my unserved customer response skills to becoming more Christ-like. I passed with a flying color (red) and prayed thanking my Heavenly Father that He knows best and is ordering my steps.

Therefore, as much as I dislike that I missed this awesome trail run, I’m glad that I’ll run Fargo Marathon this September as my Airforce Marathon in Dayton Ohio has gone virtual.

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If navigating the pandemic has been hard for you and thinking that it has to be hard on my running 50 marathons in 50 States in 50 weeks to celebrate … MORE

If navigating the pandemic has been hard for you and thinking that it has to be hard on my running 50 marathons in 50 States in 50 weeks to celebrate my 50th Birthday Year, you right. And if any race was to be a poster race for this year, it would definitely be this one.

I’m experienced at running and reading trails without the aid of technology but the terrain alone. This came in handy as navigating the trail with two other “newbie” trail runners became my task at hand. I often tell people who move into large cities like Houston Texas, USA that the best way to learn how to get around is to get lost. And lost we got — not so much me but the guys I was with on the run.

I knew that the best way for them to experience the trail was to let them experience not only the beauty but the beast. The trail, due to lack of volunteers this year because of Covid, didn’t get marked as well as it should have. Add to this the fact that markers from the prior races had not been picked up further complicating the course. This presented us with a very unique challenge.

Although the youngest one of us had decided to lead the pack and ended up making a wrong turn and doubling back towards the start while having ran about 7 miles, he had yet to come in to the finish line area when the cut-off time had approached. As a matter of fact, there stood about 35 runners for the full marathon who hadn’t yet made their way back into the finish area. But no need to worry, calls began going out and the volunteers began going out to get those who couldn’t complete the course before dark.

It sounds a lot worse then it was actually. There were many local people on the course to help people navigate. And although the curse was challenging, you had people who registered to run the half but completed the full distance of 26.2 plus miles because of being lost. Unless you’ve experienced trail running, especially on a very technical course, you probably think I’m insane. Okay, I’m insane, but that has nothing to do with the truth of how awesome it is to experience such a thrill of total exhaustion and endurance of the human spirit.

I plan to volunteer to mark the course next year. Seriously, I dream about this course, it’s beauty and the people out there for the race or the relaxation. By the way, if your friends come to support, tell them to bring their mountain bikes and full protection gear. These trails are stunning but deadly if you fall the wrong way.

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The old saying line them up and knock them down may be the best way to describe this runners row paradise. If you're looking for an excellent race put on … MORE

The old saying line them up and knock them down may be the best way to describe this runners row paradise. If you’re looking for an excellent race put on by excellent runners in an excellent urban area, look no more. From start to turnaround, this 5K back and forth course will keep you focused and knocking out the miles.

While it’s on a bike path nestled between a park and a man made Bayou (yes, I live in Houston), you’ll get the blessing of trees during sunrise and the cursing of concrete jungles during sunset — high noon offers no protection at all. There are bathrooms across the field at the start, none at the turnaround but a park restroom nestled between two huge shade tree-lined areas with a breeze that’ll make you want to camp out.

End camping out is what you might want to do if you’re doing the 24 hour run. But don’t pitch your tent just before the turnaround where the aid station is located. They might as well call this place T-HOP (Trail House of Pancakes) because they cook 3 full meals. If I only had known, I wouldn’t have arrived after breakfast and left before dinner.

California has a ton of races. California had a ton of races canceled. This race was no exception, as it had been canceled twice due to the pandemic. However, after seeing a post in a group on face book that it was on and popping for a third time and was taking place, I jumped on a plan, jumped out a lyft, ran, jumped back in a Lyft and back on a plan all within 12 hours to get California on the map.
You don’t have to do what I did, but I recommended you ran where I ran if you want a good place to run with a great race of runners on a course that’s full of local company.

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I'm not trying to leave Kansas without running this great race, and neither should you. You want the best of a trail run mixed from non-technical to Rocky "Don't Roll … MORE

I’m not trying to leave Kansas without running this great race, and neither should you. You want the best of a trail run mixed from non-technical to Rocky “Don’t Roll Your Ankles ” Roads mixed with just enough rolling hills to push your time towards a great PR, this is the run for everyone – especially you.

Having ran Grandma’s Marathon and taken the ferry tour, I had a better understanding of the large number of corn fields that lined the course, that had just been harvested. The course was filled with runners of all ages and abilities — have your mountain bikes to ride if you’re going out to cheer on your favorite runners — from first time Marathoners who were the third generation of runners in a family to soloist ultra Marathoners, who were convinced by their ultra elite running friends that they could weather the course.

Speaking of the course, the volunteers were great from start to the out and back and finish. Led by an amazing RD, they were well stocked and well equipped to ensure your success. This was the first course I’ve ever ran where volunteers rode up and down looking for runners to encourage along the route. Even the RD went out and got a runner who was lost at the tail end of the course and couldn’t find their way back after taking a wrong turn. And yes, the course was well marked. But when you begin in the dark just before dawn, things don’t look the same when flashlights are shining and voices aren’t yelling this way while you blindly follow the trail of runners at the beginning. Add to this the fact that you’re just over 31 miles amongst other factors, and you’ll find yourself really looking for the yellow brick road.

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https://runningmagazine.ca/the-scene/meet-the-texas-man-running-50-marathons-in-50-weeks-in-50-states/ Have you met the “running servant”? Aaron Burros was shot 5 times in a workplace shooting. Years later - at age 50 - he’s running 50 marathons in 50 … MORE

https://runningmagazine.ca/the-scene/meet-the-texas-man-running-50-marathons-in-50-weeks-in-50-states/

Have you met the “running servant”? Aaron Burros was shot 5 times in a workplace shooting. Years later – at age 50 – he’s running 50 marathons in 50 states in 50 weeks. He tells his story on the #RunTheRace podcast:
SPOTIFY https://open.spotify.com/episode/03ucYLHjbQNUpENT8UHRhE?si=UbdNM0G9QDOC68bPhm5_UQ&dl_branch=1.

APPLE 🍎
https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/run-the-race/id1485963489?i=1000529051491

Run the Race Podcast met founder and host, Jason Dennis, met the Running Servant at the Hatfield McCoy marathon —
“He’s an inspiration…going around the nation, talking about hope in Jesus and raising $$ for children battling cancer.” #RUNNINGSERVANT #RUNandSERVE
#IrunforAiden
#GettingItForGabby

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Foot Traffic is the right name for this run. Besides the obvious reason of running, its name is fitting for to the course and the traffic (pedestrians and cars). While … MORE

Foot Traffic is the right name for this run. Besides the obvious reason of running, its name is fitting for to the course and the traffic (pedestrians and cars). While doing an awesome job of keeping runners safe while running against traffic, the traffic leaving the island, mainly busses which transported runners, pulls up the rear of the run until leaving the island between mile 1 and 2; while runners continue straight.

The next traffic jam is shortly after passing under the American Flag hanging from the bridge. The Foot Traffic takes priority once again as traffic comes to a complete halt, and occupants cheer the runners on; while runners thank the officers for their service. Continuing on until you reach the road which takes you out and back, runners come upon volunteers and medics directing them to what is undoubtedly the most spectacular part of the course. Simply stunning scenery and huge bird nest may cause you to forget you’re actually running a marathon. Just hope you’re as fortunate as I was to see the man picking cherries from his cherry tree. He asked if I wanted some, and of course I wanted some then even more. I grew up in the age where fruit trees were everywhere. You need to know that these were the best cherries ever — Ocean Springs got nothing on them.

Sad to say, there exist many other farms of which I wasn’t as fortunate to partake of. And neither will you. That is unless you plan to visit them yourself after the run. But you might just be a little too tired to walk and pick your own food. Don’t worry, they have some farms that’ll pick for you realizing you might be tired from all the running.

Speaking of tired, I must warn you about the retired tire place. I don’t care for the smell of whatever was going on with the mountain of tires. And because it’s an out and back, you’ll pass this area twice. Just keep rolling right along, and you’ll pass it quicker then you think.

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In a small town in the middle of some of the most beautiful land and amidst some of the most beautiful people, someone stole our finisher medals — but the … MORE

In a small town in the middle of some of the most beautiful land and amidst some of the most beautiful people, someone stole our finisher medals — but the race stole my heart. From learning the local history of the race to learning there were no finisher medals, I couldn’t help but be amazed.

Let me say this then move on. What benefit does someone gain from stealing race medals? They must have thought they were getting boxes and boxes of coins. Sad to say that we were victimized, but we are all VICTORS. The Race Director did the right thing in the handling of and communication of the situation while the runners were very understanding and gracious by not blaming the race.

“Gracious” is a great word to describe the people of this small town and race. From the employees of the first, brand new, hotel to the host of the race and the community in which it was ran. Even the animals seemed to be welcoming and excited that we were there. And apparently, the course itself was welcoming.

I normally despise loops, however, in this case, the two loops for the marathon was ever so gracious, giving me a second chance to capture the beauty of the canyons and communities in which the course ran through. There were times I thought I had gone off course because I didn’t recognize the area from the initial loop due to my eyes being fixed on the landscape then being taken in awe by yet another site during the second loop.

The course is not very difficult although it’s high above sea level. There are some climbs up that lead to longer runs down. Because the community is small, they only have a patrol vehicle at one point crossing into a busy intersection which climbs up then drops down allowing you to gain minutes on your time. But the problem is that the second loop has even more traffic and running down the hill the second loop pushes you off the road onto the small single track , thus slowing you down.

Considering this race was started by a local group of woman, was not put on for some years and then picked up by a race company, I don’t see it slowing down no time soon. In fact, the more it’s held,I believe the more people who will discover it, just as I did. I definitely want to return.

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We do what we do for a myriad of reasons. Most run, some bike and a few swim while only a handful do all three — I run. I ran … MORE

We do what we do for a myriad of reasons. Most run, some bike and a few swim while only a handful do all three — I run. I ran this marathon in honor and loving memories of my Grandmas. Grandma Burros prayed me into the Kingdom of God while Grandma Templeton, who I’m sure prayed as well, taught me about the Godly lineage of our family. Both of my Grandmas lived lives that honored our Great God and Savior Jesus Christ. Grandmas, this one’s for y’all.

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Grandma knows how to throw a 5K party. As usual, Grandma's house is always a fun family filled time that you'll never forget, even a 5K race. And although I … MORE

Grandma knows how to throw a 5K party. As usual, Grandma’s house is always a fun family filled time that you’ll never forget, even a 5K race. And although I didn’t run the actual 5K, I cheered the entire 5K race on. Pictures are worth a thousand words, so I’ll let the pictures do all the talking for me. If you know anyone who ran Grandma’s 5K and marathon, share the link.

Grandma’s Marathon Weekend
https://photos.app.goo.gl/jAHda8P8pxMK3xyu6

CANADIAN RUNNING MAGAZINE
https://runningmagazine.ca/the-scene/meet-the-texas-man-running-50-marathons-in-50-weeks-in-50-states/

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First of all, this is more like a family running reunion with a well executed plan for runners on every level. Second, don't complain about the numerous add stations — … MORE

First of all, this is more like a family running reunion with a well executed plan for runners on every level. Second, don’t complain about the numerous add stations — you are not required to stop at any of them — and keep in mind that your race isn’t the only race taking place.

Logistically, they did that. You have a full, a half, a full relay, a half relay, two states – two halves all taking place at the same time. The fact that aid stations are every mile should be the least of one’s concern.

I, personally, was way too busy having the best fun and enjoying myself more than I have in over five years. From the phenomenal packet pickup to the post race party, I wished the day would’ve never ended. But all great things come to an end, at least until next year. Best believe you’d have to be the most miserable person on the planet not to have enjoyed this cool running.

Mr. and Mrs. Shawn Cool and company, along with the community, put on a memorable event. Before even toeing the start line, I knew I wanted to return to run. Within the first mile, I knew I’d be back and by mile 15, I knew I was coming back. They had aligned the entire course with personal messages to returning runners welcoming them back. The course was challenging and ran throughout the community. People were everywhere along the course cheering you on and wishing local and visiting runners personal well wishes like they’ve known them all of their lives. The aid station volunteers were past awesome, and the festivities in West Virginia start / finish line made you want to pause your Garmin and party.

It was totally a small town fell with a big town bang. From the miniature horses after the big hill up and the steep and long decline down to running through the camp areas and along the swinging bridge (I didn’t make it this far), you won’t have a moment of boredom.

CANADIAN RUNNING MAGAZINE
https://runningmagazine.ca/the-scene/meet-the-texas-man-running-50-marathons-in-50-weeks-in-50-states/

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Another covid casualty, as the marathon distance gets canceled 2 days prior because there wasn't enough police offers for road closures. Below is a screenshot of the release. MORE

Another covid casualty, as the marathon distance gets canceled 2 days prior because there wasn’t enough police offers for road closures. Below is a screenshot of the release.

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If she, the race director, had not told me that it was her first ever race, I wouldn't have known it. This is a small town race with a big … MORE

If she, the race director, had not told me that it was her first ever race, I wouldn’t have known it. This is a small town race with a big town production. You’ll feel as though the event was put on for you and your close running crew.

The only thing missing from this race was you. Seriously, if you weren’t among the few hundreds of participants and a handful of volunteers, you were MIA and missed out BIG TIME. From the course to the live country band at the country catered cookout with its own coffee vendor — yeah, I went to a race without a Starbucks even close — your running crew and you missed out big time.

Escape the big city and run the Bear Paw if you’re looking to do what you love and relax at the same time with this quick course. And hopefully like me, you’ll get your own pacer to bring you across the finish line (see photo below of a dog who belongs to a local rancher named Richard). Put this race on your Runcation list if you want some Monumental Montana Moments.

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If I said because of the pandemic, you wouldn't need an explanation as to why I had to run this virtual while I was running a live event - the … MORE

If I said because of the pandemic, you wouldn’t need an explanation as to why I had to run this virtual while I was running a live event – the Bear Paw Marathon in Havre Montana. Everything is backed up and stacked up on top of each other. I promise to just do my best.

I did, however, get a call from a reporter who wanted to get the scoop on my running the Baltimore Ten Miler virtual while running my 50th Birthday Year Celebration Running of 50 marathons in 50 states in 50 weeks and adding the BFD (Big Freakin’ Deal) Challenge to my to do list. You may watch at the link below in the Url or copy and open the link below.
https://www.wmar2news.com/news/local-news/man-includes-baltimore-ten-miler-in-50-state-race-challenge

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There exist that moment where if you try to explain something you'll ruin it. This is one of those moments. I will say this — take your family with you. MORE

There exist that moment where if you try to explain something you’ll ruin it. This is one of those moments. I will say this — take your family with you.

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What do you call a race director in a straight Jacket? You guessed right. The Crazy Race Director not only calls the shots for the NEW ENGLAND CHALLENGE but also … MORE

What do you call a race director in a straight Jacket? You guessed right. The Crazy Race Director not only calls the shots for the NEW ENGLAND CHALLENGE but also for the BISTATE CHALLENGE (Zipcode in NJ and the NY Challenge the following wi l weekend in NY). The fact that the Race Direct is crazy is only evident by the dozen or more runners who followed him from 6 states in 6 days to do a seventh. The patients have truly taken over the asylum.

Not only were there half crazy and full crazy marathoners attending all 7 states in 7 days, but they had the nerves to have family traveling to support them as well. I truly wished I could have started with them and finished with them. I had plans to run a marathon on day one and half marathons on day two through six of the NEW ENGLAND CHALLENGE and finish up on day 7th with a full. However, the fact that plans were changed due to a family tragedy and a friend’s blessing for her 40th birthday (see my TabaccoRoadMarathon review), I wasn’t as prepared as I had hoped.

I met many awesome fellow runners from the 50 States Marathon, Marathon and Half Marathon Maniac along with Double Agents, regular runners like myself and family members and friends — and less I forget, all of the wonderful dogs. The park was full of people running, walking riding, playing soccer and many other activities.

One of the main activities that was drawing a crowd in and of itself was the event where an ultra distance runner was stopping at the park to run his very last leg of his run across America (see photo below). You never truly know who is running with you or in the same place while running around the country (or the world). While running the 2019 Virgin Money London Marathon, the Queen herself came out to wave the runners on to the finish line.

Getting back to the finish line, I didn’t cross the finish line of this particular race but will, LORD willing, cross the finish line of completing my 50th Birthday Year Celebration Running of 50 Marathons in 50 States in 50 Weeks at the 50th Anniversary of the Houston Chevron Marathon and Aramco Half in January 2022 in 5:50:50. You should plan to join us whether you run or volunteer or volunCHEER.

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I truly enjoyed watching the A-Team growing up. So when they came out with the movie on big screen, I was super excited. Although I was glad that they held … MORE

I truly enjoyed watching the A-Team growing up. So when they came out with the movie on big screen, I was super excited. Although I was glad that they held to the storyline, characters, costumes, I was most satisfied when the declining actions lead to that one famous line by Hannibal – “I love it when a plan comes together. ” Like Hannibal, I love it when a race plan comes together. The Tabacco Road Marathon weekend was a well thought out plan in the midst of a pandemic that came together. Grab an ice cold cut m chocolate milk and read this review.

From registering for the race to returning back home, the Tabacco Road didn’t disappoint in the least of ways. After a friend contacted me about wanting to run a race to celebrate her 40th birthday, meet family and run a marathon in North Carolina, I immediately put a plan in action during the midst of my own plan of my own 50th Birthday Year Celebration Running of Marathons benefiting St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital. Since I had already crossed North Carolina off of my 50 Marathons in 50 States in 50 weeks, I added this run just prior to my NEW ENGLAND CHALLENGE and BISTATE CHALLENGE (NJ only for me) with the Crazy Race Director. The stage was set but a hiccip would happen that would make running North Carolina a second time even more special.

Prior to leaving for the race, my nephew committed suicide allowing me to run and serve in a manner I hadn’t thought about – by not running but serving. Although I signed up for the half due to previously running North Carolina, the race was asking for people to defer their half or run virtually to get the number of participants down. Since the race was over two days with the full ran on Saturday and the half on Sunday, I asked if I could switch to the full, knowing I probably wouldn’t finish, and volunteer at the finish line on Sunday. I was granted my request. I also helped my sister who needed support financially with the burial of her son. This caused me not to be able to complete the NEW ENGLAND CHALLENGE but only the BISTATE CHALLENGE (Which was awesome in and of itself).

Speaking of Awesome, the course for the full was amazing, and the course for the half was a runner’s dream. For the full, it began going uphill then downhill with two separate out and backs (to the right then back across to the left of a T-section along a playful decline-incline course then uphill finishing downhill with a small uphill kick. The half, I was told by runners, who enjoy a hill or two challenge, that the half course was ideal. I knew it to be true because the flat liners – people who desire to run only flat courses and strongly dislike any course with a challenge – complained about the big hill just prior to the downhill kick at the end. Previous runners of the half testified that although the course was new, it was better than previous due to the difficulty level being increased.

Raising the difficulty level increases the rewards and appreciation not only for not the race course of runs but also of life itself. This weekend was pivotal in many ways for my 50th Birthday Year Celebration Running of Marathons. I was challenged to run longer but only physically but emotionally, mentally, spiritually and financially as I sacrificed all that I am and have by serving others. This race isn’t given to the swift or the strong, but to him who endures (let him who have ears to hear, hear what the Spirit of the LORD is saying). I love it when a plan comes together.

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There's one thing you lack. This is what Jesus said to the rich young ruler. What's that, the rich young ruler replied. To which Jesus commanded him to go sale … MORE

There’s one thing you lack. This is what Jesus said to the rich young ruler. What’s that, the rich young ruler replied. To which Jesus commanded him to go sale everything he had and give it to the poor; and follow me.

There’s one thing this race lacks – the medal. That is until you truly realize this race is all about the charity and see finishers proudly wearing their medal (which is really not made of medal). This run will both push you physically with a great course and spiritually to test your charitable character and exposing your pride.

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You wanna run a small town with a BIG feel? This is a great race to do. I'm hoping the Chamber takes advantage of the exposure it received from being … MORE

You wanna run a small town with a BIG feel? This is a great race to do. I’m hoping the Chamber takes advantage of the exposure it received from being one of the few races taking place during the pandemic 2020.

The race begins at Medford Park and quickly moves off road onto the Pine line Trail. This out and back is in the midst of picturesque farmlands. If you’re looking to get away from the big city runs and spend some quiet time alone, with God and / or family and friends, there’s no better run. And I needed my run family during this run like no other time.

If you’re not familiar with my story of why I’m running 50 marathons in 50 states in 50 weeks to celebrate my 50th Birthday Year, please click the link below to Dr. Loren Muirfield’s article about my plight. With this in mind, shortly after mile 9, we found ourselves in the midst of a shooting sporting event. With guns blazing, I began recording myself on my cell while looking at others reacting to the gunfire in an attempt to focus and manage my PTSD. I would learn later that a Vietnam War Veteran was affected by the gunfire. I honestly wasn’t expecting such a display of weaponry in the middle of Central Wisconsin. I thank God I made it through and past the situation.

Although I only completed the half, I made it to another milestone. This was the first time since the events of being shot at work that I was not affected with nightmares or night terrors. Running is very therapeutic. But when therapy is met with triggers of the trauma,I am only able to be extremely grateful to the LORD my God that it wasn’t worst then it could’ve been.

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I don't want to spoil anything about running this race. I will say this – if you want to test your training, you won't be disappointed. There's nothing that is … MORE

I don’t want to spoil anything about running this race. I will say this – if you want to test your training, you won’t be disappointed.

There’s nothing that is disappointing about this race — no, not even the fact that I didn’t finish. This is the most rewarding and amazing experience I’ve had in a very long time. I was full of joy.

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What a beautiful morning, what a beautiful day, I have a beautiful feeling everything's blowing away – literally. You couldn't have asked for a more perfect union to begin the … MORE

What a beautiful morning, what a beautiful day, I have a beautiful feeling everything’s blowing away – literally. You couldn’t have asked for a more perfect union to begin the race. With a new marathon course, new drop-off location for the half and having had an excellent 5K day before the main events, it was a dead ringer that many PRs and course records would be set. That was until the Great Mighty Mississippi River reminded everyone – and everything – just why it is called the Great and Mighty.

Had the first 5K been an indication of things to come, I would have set my own personal goal of 5:05:50 for my 50th Birthday Year Celebration Running of Marathons time goal, instead, it was an indictment against thinking that you can do anything but show up prepared as possible to run in whatever conditions possible.

Miles 3.2 upto 8 would take the wind out of not only me, but even the elite runners on the course who would later go one to tell how their hopes were just to finish after making it just under a third into the marathon. Some like myself, pushed towards the turnaround while witnessing the elite runners being pushed by the wind. At one point, my 6′ 2″ 290 pound body was twice nearly knocked over by the 40 mph plus wind gusts. A fellow runner who past me up heading back to mile 8 laughed in awe that the wind nearly knocked me off of my feet. And as I was heading back to mile 8, the wind gust picked up and knocked over a Port-a-potty. Exhausted, I excited the trail head to climb the bridges back over to Missouri from Illinois. Little did I know that I’d find myself experiencing one of the worst episodes of PTSD that I had experienced in a little while.

I started up the bridge headed back 3 miles to the start area where we began having difficulty focusing. By the time I had reached the aid station just prior to crossing the Route 66 Bridge, I was an emotional wreck. The lady over the aid station convinced me to rest a moment and proceeded to call for someone to pick me up. However, I was determined to get to the otherwise. I knew if I could just make it to the other side, back to Missouri, that I’d finish with the wind at my back helping me. Besides, I had told myself that I needed to complete no less than 13.1 miles because my heart l great niece Gabby and another runner’s son Aiden didn’t have the choice to give up due to their pain. After gathering myself, I told the lady that I needed to at least get back across the bridge to the start. She arranged for the medics to pick me up at the start.

As I continued across Route 66, I only grew worse. My anxiety, depression and crying spells were back and in full force. I was angry, hurt, mad, disappointed, felt like a failure and many other emotions were going through my mind and body. Sometime thereafter, a medic biker rode up asking me was I okay. I quickly replied no emphatically. I knew I was far from okay. I was in a vulnerable place. I had been thrown out of a plane workout a parachute. I needed help and probably for the first time during my race wasn’t afraid to let someone know.

The biker guy stayed with me for the next mile or so. He helped by asking important questions then listening. He let me cry but kept me focused. He encouraged me to get where I could get help and decide realistically whether to continue or not. I shared why I was running, why I wanted to get to the half way point and my hopes of just needing to complete an entire marathon one day in 5:05:50. He then handed me off to another biker, a lady who I recognized from Facebook with Black Girls Run.

I continued with her expressing why I needed to get to the half mark while she continued to ask if I wanted to stop. She warned me of a steep hill and was concerned if I’d make it. To tell the truth, I was concerned if I’d make it. But I continued to cross the street where the police officer who was driving a medics transport vehicle inquired if I wanted to get in. I told him that I needed to get to the halfway mark, to which he replied that he’d wait for me there. So up the steep hill I went, stopping at some point lessthan halfway up and continuing to get to the timing mat.

As I approached the sign informing us that the mat was near, I found new energy from the sun shining — just enough energy to run through the timing mat. If only I wasn’t an emotional wreck, I would have pressed on to cross the finish line. But the pain caused from the work I had to wrought from running against and from the Great ighty Mississippi River was way too much for me to bear. I called it quits, knowing that I’d live to run another day.

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Many people were in Indiana for the culmination of the NCAA's college basketball March Madness, but I was there to run a marathon. Now don't think I didn't try to … MORE

Many people were in Indiana for the culmination of the NCAA’s college basketball March Madness, but I was there to run a marathon. Now don’t think I didn’t try to get tickets with the University of Houston making it to the final four since the days of Phi Slama Jama. What a weekend it would have been to attend both events. But as things would go, neither the Cougars or me would accomplish our goals that weekend although history was being made.

If you don’t know my story, then you would think that I again have failed to accomplish my goal of completing my marathon in 5:05:50, especially since I haven’t finished a marathon since the Mississippi River Marathon back in February. However, if you have read or are aware of my story, then you think I’m a heroic runner, a crazy lunatic or a little of both. I’m sure many people said the same about the organizers of the Carmel Marathon for putting on the race. No matter, the Carmel Marathon was a great event excellently executed during a pathetic pandemic.

I’ll be honest. I was warned not to run this race by those who have ran it in the past due to the boring course. But the pandemic has forced many to adapt and change the mundane to magnificent. Whatever the course used to be for many races, they’ve had to change to adapt to cities requirements for permits. These changes have challenged races across the country to change the course of their events – literally. And for the Caramel Marathon it was a great change.

I hope they keep the new course which was far from a boring country road run of which I was warned about. I’d definitely love to return to complete the full. Especially, since the last 10K runs through the park where there’s a whole lot of activities going on.

Carmel is a gorgeous place and the run was just as gorgeous. There were many other perks to doing this race. I just wanted to focus on my experience and what mattered to me during my 50th Birthday Year Celebration Running of 50 Marathons in 50 States in 50 weeks.

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I planned to knock out two states in one trip in one weekend. But my body had other plans. I woke up and drove to New Jersey to check it … MORE

I planned to knock out two states in one trip in one weekend. But my body had other plans. I woke up and drove to New Jersey to check it out. I definitely need to get back to this one.

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I had to switch my second marathon to a virtual. What is Your 2021 Audacious Goal? https://murfieldcoaching.com/2021/01/12/what-is-your-2021-audacious-goal/ TRACK MY RUNS https://raceraves.com/runningservant/ PODCAST INTERVIEW https://www.facebook.com/watch/?v=824803278272266 … MORE

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Love this race director. He cares so much about every little detail of the race – before, during and after. And although the race course was changed due to covid-19, … MORE

Love this race director. He cares so much about every little detail of the race – before, during and after. And although the race course was changed due to covid-19, the cause did not get interrupted or side stepped. There were no excuses given only encouragement and expectations of what would come.

What is Your 2021 Audacious Goal?
https://murfieldcoaching.com/2021/01/12/what-is-your-2021-audacious-goal/
DIRECT DONATIONS
http://heroes.stjude.org/runningservant
TRACK MY RUNS
https://raceraves.com/runningservant/
PODCAST INTERVIEW
https://www.facebook.com/watch/?v=824803278272266

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The only thing that didn't meet my needs and exceed my expectations was me. You'll either love this race or run with the devil (the same race but in the … MORE

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Hello. I’m Aaron Burros, the Running Servant and wanted to share about my 50th Birthday Year Celebration Running of Marathons. I’m running 50 marathons in 50 states in 50 weeks … MORE

Hello. I’m Aaron Burros, the Running Servant and wanted to share about my 50th Birthday Year Celebration Running of Marathons. I’m running 50 marathons in 50 states in 50 weeks benefiting St. Jude Children Research Hospital. Please take an opportunity to listen to the podcast TRENDS, BENDS and OPPORTUNITIES and read the article AARON’S AUDACIOUS GOALS and donate (links are at end).

“This past weekend, I ran the Daufuskie Island Marathon ON STEROIDS called the Skidaway Island Marathon. First and foremost let me say that the music selections were awesome, the bible reading was extremely refreshing and the prayer was very purposeful. The event, its director and volunteers and community along with the runners were awesome.

Going into race day I was YEAH YEAH YEAH; but during the race I was like ALL OF THE GLORY BELONGS TO YOU. So much is right about this race. If you want to connect with the creator of nature in the midst of a loving community, run Skidaway.

The race itself was an eclectic experience for me. Being able to run with others while pacing with a pacer was beautiful. Although we social distanced, just having pacers on the course was very encouraging for many. Talking and telling stories while stopping periodically to take pictures with others running the half marathon was a great experience. But around mile 7, the group fun came to an end — I would run the next 13 miles solo.
My pain was surprisingly sustainable. And while I can’t imagined the pain Aiden, Gabby and other young children go through daily from cancer, treatments and surgeries, I thought to myself this was akin to them having a good day. I made it to mile 20 with 45 minutes remaining of a strict 6 hour course time, leaving me with a 10K to run. This is when the emotional escalade ensues. Prior to being shot and sustaining glute muscle and soft tissue damage, a 10K wasn’t nothing but a breeze. Afterwards, running a 10K has become an hour plus ordeal. It would be at this moment that the anger in me rages against the machine which puts profit over people. I must stay focused.

What is Your 2021 Audacious Goal?
https://murfieldcoaching.com/2021/01/12/what-is-your-2021-audacious-goal/

DIRECT DONATIONS
http://heroes.stjude.org/runningservant

TRACK MY RUNS
https://raceraves.com/runningservant/

PODCAST INTERVIEW
https://www.facebook.com/watch/?v=824803278272266

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If you are not familiar with me, please read my story so that you'll know about how I'm going from the gory to glory for HIS Story. As I mentioned … MORE

If you are not familiar with me, please read my story so that you’ll know about how I’m going from the gory to glory for HIS Story. As I mentioned in my review of the Quarter Crazy, everyone has a running level of crazy. Most are half crazy, some are full crazy while a few are Ultra Crazy (which I use to be); but now I’m just AUDACIOUS —
Aaron’s Audacious Goal.
https://murfieldcoaching.com/2021/01/12/what-is-your-2021-audacious-goal/

Unlike the Quarter and half Marathons, the full takes you on a route that will have you crazy not to want to finish. Although I made it to the cutoff point with minutes to spare, I decided to turn around and finish with the half marathoners. There was no way I could muster up the momentum to catch up with a pace to finish inside the 6 hour course time, especially since it would mean that I would have to complete the course in 5 hours 15 minutes. I would have to live to run another day.

Despite not competing the entire full, I was blessed to run the last 400 meters with a lady who was looking to complete her marathon in under 4 hours. She asked if I could pace her across the finish line. I was honored. After all, they don’t call me the Running Servant for nothing.

Call me crazy (or Cajun Crazy), but I just love it when I’m able to run and serve someone on the concrete course. I had a weekend full of doing so. Saturday, I served my baby as she completed her first every Quarter Marathon then Sunday, I was able to serve Chris who wanted to run a half in under 4 hours without training and the lady who hit her PR goal of a sub 4.

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Craziness comes in many different distances when it comes to walking, jogging running or any combination of the three (I. E. Wogging - mixing of walking and jogging). Some are … MORE

Craziness comes in many different distances when it comes to walking, jogging running or any combination of the three (I. E. Wogging – mixing of walking and jogging). Some are half crazy (13.1), others are full crazy (26.2) and a select are Ultra crazy (31.7 miles and above). Me? I use to be ultra crazy before I was the victim of a violent crime (shot several times), but now I’m just AUDACIOUS and maybe just A QUARTER crazy.

If you’ve been following me, more than likely you’ve read an article or listened to a podcast about my journey and plight. If not, you may want to read or listen by clicking on the link below —

Aaron’s Audacious Goal.
https://murfieldcoaching.com/2021/01/12/what-is-your-2021-audacious-goal/

If you are familiar with why I’m running 50 marathons in 50 states in 50 weeks to celebrate my 50th Birthday Year benefiting St. Jude Children Research Hospital, then you’ll know that I am no stranger to running and serving. This run of the quarter marathon was no different.

I was grateful and glad to have on the course with me a very dear friend and special lady. Although I am normally up and out at the races before the crowds arrive — I love helping behind the scenes — I rolled up on time for most but late by my standards to the race. The corrals were socially distanced and the temp was wonderful. The race was amazing all the way around. Baton Rouge is a great place to run, and the people were fantastic. It was a great experience and a special memorable moment for me in my run history.

I’d definitely recommend this race to anyone who is looking for a great overall experience. There’s nothing missing except the crowds of supporters due to Covid. But the love runners had for each other carried us.

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I wish I was in Kansas, I wish I was in Kansas, I wish I was in Kansas — as I click the heels of my Brooks Trascends to try … MORE

I wish I was in Kansas, I wish I was in Kansas, I wish I was in Kansas — as I click the heels of my Brooks Trascends to try and transcend the cold and wet rain. Who ordered this weather at the last minute. This was a run you had to complete with your mind over matter, because it didn’t matter that I was out of my mind.

I spent the night at the Wilmington Airport and caught a Lyft to the start line where I was met with the cold and the rain immediately stepping out of the car. I changed in the car, dropped my bag off and had two minutes to cross the start line — talk about cutting it close. But when you running 50 marathons in 50 states in 50 weeks to celebrate your 50th Birthday Year in the midst of a pandemic, cutting it close is better than nothing.

Speaking of cutting it close, if you’ve been following my AUDACIOUS ACTIONS, you might have read an article (or two) or heard a podcast (or two) of how I was the victim of a workplace shooting where I literally came one millimeter from having a bullet fragment hit my femoral artery — that’s cutting it close. If you haven’t read it, you may click on this link to listen and learn about just how close I came to bleeding out in a company parking lot —
Aaron’s Audacious Goal.
https://murfieldcoaching.com/2021/01/12/what-is-your-2021-audacious-goal/

Speaking of parking lots, the race course seemed like it was becoming a parking lot for boats to sail in from the Atlantic Ocean to begin the marathon.

If you run for the BLING, you most definitely will want to sign up for BAM races, who spare no expense making you feel like the training and the run was worth it and making you feel like you should have pushed through to finish if you were not able to. I for one was not able to push through the elements and the stress my body had to endure. My PTSD had kicked in between miles eleven and thirteen causing me to experience sever depression and crying spells. In addition, the cold made the pain in my glutes more sensitive. Add to it the fact that my fingers had frozen together while running.

I just couldn’t continue, so I stopped at mile 14; where a lady whose husband had ran the marathon asked me if I wanted a Body Armour and a banana. I wanted to mile fifteen then turned back onto the course and headed down the home stretch.

BAM put on an excellent event in spite of all the challenges Covid brought to bear. I definitely want to complete their series at some point in the future.

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Hello. I’m Aaron Burros, the Running Servant and wanted to share about my 50th Birthday Year Celebration Running of Marathons. I’m running 50 marathons in 50 states in 50 weeks … MORE

Hello. I’m Aaron Burros, the Running Servant and wanted to share about my 50th Birthday Year Celebration Running of Marathons. I’m running 50 marathons in 50 states in 50 weeks benefiting St. Jude Children Research Hospital. Please take an opportunity to listen to the podcast TRENDS, BENDS and OPPORTUNITIES and read the article AARON’S AUDACIOUS GOALS and donate (links are at end).

“This past weekend, I ran the “Crooked Letter, Crooked Letter, Hump Back”. Bridge that was the TROUBLE over calm water Marathon – the Mississippi River Marathon. I won’t spend time speaking about the course of the race except for the Mississippi River bridge going from Arkansas to Mississippi made for vehicles and not people. It expands about 2.5 miles with the half marathon and 13 mile marker on the incline — who designed this? In the words of a famous poet, DON’T BE CRUEL, BECAUSE I WOULD NEVER BE THAT CRUEL TO YOU. Continuing upward and onward you come upon mile 14 slightly pass the top of the bridge — or is that mile 15. Anyway, all I know is that when I looked back, there was a curve as far as the eye could see much like looking at the edge of the earth. This is a bridge people, not a planet.

The final mile coming off the bridge renewed my sense of purpose making me strong and invigorating my desire to run on and run strong. This was sort lived as I realized being back on the flat earth that it was the gravity pulling me off the bridge and not my body running me off. It was time for my will to kick back in. After all, I ran the first 2 hours and 20 minutes nonstop. It would take me another 4 hours and 40 minutes to run the remaining 15.2 miles (just a little under a 25K).

There are many things to appreciate about running a marathon and finishing next to dead last. For one, I was able to film everyone beginning the race for both the Arkansas Half portion and the full marathon. But what simply amazed me was the police literally drove behind the last person the entire way. I was that last person for the first 8 miles, and I tell you the truth – Ole boy was jamming. In addition, you get to see the course in the aftermath of the pack and see just how much the production people and the volunteers truly care about the runners. I never ever, ever… ever… ever experienced police and first responders cheering you on and on and on. And despite the cold weather, the volunteers played a vital part in continuing to carry us thru. But I have to give mad shots… I mean shout outs to the family and friends of the house towards the end of the private gated community. Yeah, many took shots and beer from them but I wax filled with their spirit of encouragement and sacrifice of their pickle juice for a lady I was helping to finish her first marathon.

Somewhere between miles 15 and 16, there was a lady who was praying to the LORD Jesus for help with knowing how to work through the cramps in her legs. In speaking with her, I was able to access her condition, help her hydrate properly and get pickle juice in order to keep her in the race. I was feeling good and looking forward to finishing in 6 hours. But they don’t call me the Running Servant for no reason.

If you haven’t read about my story, please click on link at the bottom to catch up to understand my why. If you have read (or heard of me, then you know that I am a sucker for a runner in distress. Seriously, and I am being serious, it has been very humbling for me to get back to running on this level. I am grateful to my Heavenly Father for the opportunity to Run and Serve. The lessons I’m learning are priceless. People are my true medals for me to display on Monday and every day thereafter.

Runners on every level were hitting their goals.
My goal was just a goal, but I wasn’t out there for a personal goal — I was out there for Aiden, a young boy I previously met at a marathon, and for Gabby, my two year old great niece who was diagnosed with a cancerous growth on her kidney along with all the other children with cancer and other childhood diseases. #IRunforAiden and #GettingItForGabby was my why regardless if I had to crawl across the finish line —thank God I didn’t have to this time.

My pain was tolerable for me but may have been intolerable for others. I’m getting stronger, but so is the pain. And while I can’t imagined the pain Aiden, Gabby and other young children go through daily from cancer, treatments and surgeries, I kept pushing through until I crossed the finish line. But not only the one at the Mississippi River Marathon but also the goal of completing my 50th Birthday Year Celebration Running of Marathons benefiting St. Jude Children Research Hospital. And I’m hoping you will not only track me but help me to reach a goal that I need your help to meet (and exceed). I’m hoping to raise $50,000 for St. Jude. Please give what you purpose in your heart to give and share my need because you have a heart. Donate here:
http://heroes.stjude.org/runningservant

By donating, families never receive a bill from St. Jude. Thank you for joining me in supporting this great organization. God bless you and yours. I’ll see you all out on the course of life. Until then, run your race well.

DIFFICULTY
3
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5
My Report
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3
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5
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Hello. I’m Aaron Burros, the Running Servant and wanted to share about my 50th Birthday Year Celebration Running of Marathons. I’m running 50 marathons in 50 states in 50 weeks … MORE

Hello. I’m Aaron Burros, the Running Servant and wanted to share about my 50th Birthday Year Celebration Running of Marathons. I’m running 50 marathons in 50 states in 50 weeks benefiting St. Jude Children Research Hospital. Please take an opportunity to listen to the podcast TRENDS, BENDS and OPPORTUNITIES and read the article AARON’S AUDACIOUS GOALS and donate (links are at end).

“This past weekend, I ran the the Big Beach Marathon — and the beach isn’t the only thing that’s BIG. From the production to the people, this race, along with the Safari 7K the day prior, is HUGE. If you have never been to a 311 Production, treat yourself don’t cheat yourself. The Swag is Swaggerific, the food is fantastic and Gulf Shores Alabama is a great place to vacation and run. For what I paid for the entire run and Lodging, I went away feeling like I stole something.

Going into race day I was excited about running, especially after experiencing a unique and excellent 7K. I wasn’t disappointed at all. The course had its up and downs (literally) followed by what seemed like the incline to hell as opposed to the stairway to heaven. The great thing about the incline is the possibility of seeing the wildlife. Having this expectation makes the incline inviting. And at the top of it was the noisiest aid station that I’ve yet to experience. I literally thought we were passing the finish line. After running to the top, I welcomed running the portion of the course on the wooden bridge — don’t worry it wasn’t slippery even though it was raining a little.

The next challenge would come in the form of one, if not all, the four winds of the earth. I’m 6′ 2″ 280 pounds. The wind stood me up and pushed me back. After completing the first loop, I was told by race personal and others that the wind was more disrespectful last year. Yeah, THAT’S WHAT I SAID. Just be prepared to wind run miles 11-13 for the half and miles 22-26.1 for the second loop of the full.

I wasn’t able to complete my second loop. I ran consistently for the first mile which was a steady incline on the road then turned and dropped down before a slight incline and turn into the park which continues up and down (declining for 10 miles) to I reached the turnaround at mile 7.1. From there, your at the base of the park and run up a continuous incline which levels of and turns only to continue to incline. When I was just passing mile 8, I couldn’t run the incline any longer. If you aren’t familiar with my story, I was shot several times in a workplace shooting and have damage in my glutes ; and if you don’t understand running, the glutes are rhe power houses that gives you the ability to run. Just imagine driving your car but your engine is misting, and when you push the gas there’s no power to increase the speed. That’s my glutes.

Therfore, after my first loop, I tried resting for a twenty minute window in hopes that I could continue. When the sweeper Pacers came by, I knew that I was not going to be able to continue and make the cutoff. The pain was debilitating.

Runners on every level were hitting their goals for the second loop — SHOUT OUTS TO THOSE IN THE 50 STATES MARATHON RUNNERS. My goal, as usual, was just a goal, but I wasn’t out there for a personal goal — I was out there for Aiden, a young boy I previously met at a marathon, and for Gabby, my two year old great niece who was diagnosed with a cancerous growth on her kidney along with all the other children with cancer and other childhood diseases. #IRunforAiden and #GettingItForGabby was my why regardless if I had to crawl across the finish line. But in this case the finished crawled to me.

My pain was very uncomfortable to say the least. And while I can’t imagined the pain Aiden, Gabby and other young children go through daily from cancer, treatments and surgeries, I keep pushing through my 50 marathons in 50 states in 50 weeks Goal even if I can’t cross every finish line. But there’s a finish line you can help me cross.

I need your help reaching my goal to benefit St. Jude Children Research Hospital of $50,000. Give what you purpose in your heart and share my need because you have a heart. Because of people like you, families never receive a bill from St. Jude. Join me in supporting this great organization by donating to my goal for the 2020 Team St. Jude! Click here to donate:
http://heroes.stjude.org/runningservant.

DIFFICULTY
3
PRODUCTION
5
My Report
SCENERY
3
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5
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A great warm up the day before the big day of Marathon running. I had a great time. I'll tell more about the entire weekend after I finish the marathon. … MORE

A great warm up the day before the big day of Marathon running. I had a great time. I’ll tell more about the entire weekend after I finish the marathon. Here’s a video you may watch.
https://photos.app.goo.gl/rLVeFb1JVHFFrG4E6

DIFFICULTY
1
PRODUCTION
5
My Report
SCENERY
4
SWAG
5
My Media

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Hello. I’m Aaron Burros, the Running Servant and wanted to share about my 50th Birthday Year Celebration Running of Marathons. I’m running 50 marathons in 50 states in 50 weeks … MORE

Hello. I’m Aaron Burros, the Running Servant and wanted to share about my 50th Birthday Year Celebration Running of Marathons. I’m running 50 marathons in 50 states in 50 weeks benefiting St. Jude Children Research Hospital. Please take an opportunity to listen to the podcast TRENDS, BENDS and OPPORTUNITIES and read the article AARON’S AUDACIOUS GOALS and donate (links are at end).

“This past weekend, I ran the GO SHORT GO LONG GO VERY LONG Ultra 50K ( they offer a 5K, 10K and 25K to fit the name of the race). If you want a paved trail race that mixes half city with half trails for a 25K loop, this is the race you’re looking for. But that one hill though will challenge you between miles 8 & 9. But my challenge began the moment I left Houston Texas, USA, driving to the race.

Going into race day I was sleepless in Tulsa. Upon arrival to my hotel, I was met with those unfriendly words – we are overbooked and don’t have a room for you. I would have taken the couch in the lobby, but Covid restrictions prevented such desperate measures. And with the impossible task of booking a hotel at 1 AM, I was forced to sleep – of try to anyway – in my truck in 30 degree weather. But when you’ve been the victim of a violent crime (you really should read the article to find out), you don’t sleep soundly.

The day began before sunrise with me resting my eyelids as cars poured into the park one by one. I joined the procession and parked with privilege near the restroom. There’s not a bad parking spot at all. The atmosphere was calm, the runners were poised and the stage was set for an awesome race for many.

My plan was to complete the 50K in 7 hours. This wasn’t an impossible goal. My body was in agreement with me as far as my bullet butt was concerned. Even the hill didn’t throw me off. But what did was the fact that I was sleep deprived. So after completing the first loop, I knew that I was not going to make it a second loop as I had began seeing black lines in the vision of my right eye after each blink.

As with the previous race, runners on every level were hitting their goals. I did stop to help a young lady who was half way through the 25K but couldn’t finish. I hope she’s better and will get back out on the course soon.

My goal was just a goal; but I wasn’t out there for a personal goal, I was out there for Aiden, a young boy I previously met at a marathon, and for Gabby, my two year old great niece who was diagnosed with a cancerous growth on her kidney (and with tumors inside her skull since last run) along with all the other children with cancer and other childhood diseases. #IRunforAiden and #GettingItForGabby

My pain was very uncomfortable to say the least. And while I can’t imagined the pain Aiden, Gabby and other young children go through daily from cancer, treatments and surgeries, I’ll keep pushing through until I cross the finish line at the 50th state in the Houston Chevron Marathon and Aramco Half January 16, 2022.

I was the very last 50K runner and didn’t finish. The volunteers treated us as if we were the top male and female finishers — thank you all for the excellent job. Continue to be audacious. Like Arnold, “I’ll be back.”.

What is Your 2021 Audacious Goal?
https://murfieldcoaching.com/2021/01/12/what-is-your-2021-audacious-goal/

DIRECT DONATIONS
http://heroes.stjude.org/runningservant

TRACK MY RUNS
https://raceraves.com/runningservant/

PODCAST INTERVIEW
https://www.facebook.com/watch/?v=824803278272266

DIFFICULTY
2
PRODUCTION
5
My Report
SCENERY
4
SWAG
5
My Media

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Hello. I'm Aaron Burros, the Running Servant and wanted to share about my 50th Birthday Year Celebration Running of Marathons. I'm running 50 marathons in 50 states in 50 weeks … MORE

Hello. I’m Aaron Burros, the Running Servant and wanted to share about my 50th Birthday Year Celebration Running of Marathons. I’m running 50 marathons in 50 states in 50 weeks benefiting St. Jude Children Research Hospital. Please take an opportunity to listen to the podcast TRENDS, BENDS and OPPORTUNITIES and read the article AARON’S AUDACIOUS GOALS and donate (links are at end).

“This past weekend, I ran the Daufuskie Island Marathon And Ultra, a hidden gem of a race located at the South of South Carolina a ferry ride across from Hilton Head Island. It was a very rewarding race that’s flat as a pancake with breathtaking views and a course made up of everything but concrete — trail shoes only needed if it were to rain. I definitely will run it again.

Going into race day I was excited about running my first live race for my birthday after Houston Chevron Marathon and Aramco Half went virtual — now it’s my 50th marathon for the state of Texas — and the Louisiana Marathon rescheduled behind the Covid–19 pandemic.

The day began before sunrise catching the ferry over to the Daufuskie Island and warming up with volunteers singing Happy Birthday to me, giving me a cinnamon role from the local bakery sponsor and heating up in the tented runner’s village. The atmosphere was calm, the runners were poised and the stage was set for an awesome race for many.

After mile eleven, I took a terrible fall (If you haven’t read about my story, please click on link at the bottom to catch up to understand) and would hobble across the half way mark thirty minutes beyond the 2.5 hours in which I planned on in order to run 05:05:50 for the marathon. When you consider what I’ve been through to get to this point, that’s a little bit reaching for me ; but this course is laid out in such a way that the impossible becomes possible. Plus the weather was perfect with no humidity.

Runners on every level were hitting their goals.
For the second loop, I could only walk in order to finish. My goal was just a goal, but I wasn’t out there for a personal goal — I was out there for Aiden, a young boy I previously met at a marathon, and for Gabby, my two year old great niece who was diagnosed with a cancerous growth on her kidney along with all the other children with cancer and other childhood diseases. #IRunforAiden and #GettingItForGabby was my why regardless if I had to crawl across the finish line.

My pain was very uncomfortable to say the least. And while I can’t imagined the pain Aiden, Gabby and other young children go through daily from cancer, treatments and surgeries, I kept pushing through until I crossed the finish line.

There were only a few other marathoners who finished behind me while every ultra marathoner had finished ahead of me. Tracy Tate and I began together and she crossed several minutes after to be the final runner off the course. The volunteers treated us as if we were the top male and female finishers — thank you all for the excellent job. Continue to be audacious. Like Arnold, “I’ll be back.”.

What is Your 2021 Audacious Goal?
https://murfieldcoaching.com/2021/01/12/what-is-your-2021-audacious-goal/

DIRECT DONATIONS
http://heroes.stjude.org/runningservant

TRACK MY RUNS
https://raceraves.com/runningservant/

PODCAST INTERVIEW
https://www.facebook.com/watch/?v=824803278272266

DIFFICULTY
1
PRODUCTION
5
SCENERY
5
SWAG
4
My Media

1 member marked this review helpful. Agree?

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